• Unsalted Butter (1 cup / 226g): Provides richness, helps bind the ingredients, and adds a classic buttery flavor. Using unsalted allows you to control the salt level.
• Granulated Sugar (1 cup / 200g): Sweetens the bars and contributes to their structure once cooled.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (1/2 cup / 45g): Delivers the deep, rich chocolate flavor. Choose a good quality cocoa powder for the best taste.
• Milk (1/2 cup / 120ml): Any kind works (dairy, almond, soy, oat). It adds moisture and helps create the syrupy base.
• Rolled Oats (3 cups / 270g): Also known as old-fashioned oats. These provide the signature chewy texture and wholesome goodness. Do not use instant or steel-cut oats.
• Peanut Butter (1/2 cup / 130g): Creamy or crunchy, your choice! Adds a delicious nutty flavor and helps bind the bars. For nut allergies, sunflower seed butter or tahini can be alternatives.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the other flavors, especially the chocolate.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and brings out the chocolate notes.
• Optional Chocolate Chips (1/2 cup / 90g): For an extra layer of chocolatey goodness, either mixed in or melted on top as a frosting. Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips work well.
